A careful first response
What to do next.
- Don't pay, and don't argue in the thread
- Keep every message — they are the evidence
- Reply once, calmly, through Airbnb's messaging only
- Report the threat to Airbnb, and request removal if the review is posted
- Note the reservation code and dates
Why the thread is everything
The threat in writing is what turns 'a bad review' into extortion. Messages outside Airbnb (WhatsApp, phone) are much harder to use — keep the conversation on the platform.
If the review is already up
Request removal on the ground of extortion or pressure, with the messages attached. Remember Airbnb accepts a removal request for the same review up to two times.